PFA E-Bulletin, Volume 23 (April 2013)

PFA TO BE AT REGINA’S FIRST GEEK SUMMIT!

The Regina Public Library is hosting the first Regina Geek Summit for organizations actively involved in geek (i.e., non-traditional) cultural activities in our community. The summit will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 27 at the George Bothwell Branch, Southland Mall. Admission is free. You can learn about local groups and activities, and how to get involved . People for Animals will be at the event with volunteers available to answer questions and provide uou with information about how you can support PFA.

CALL FOR INTEREST – CO-CHAIR, FUNDRAISING AND MEMBERSHIP

PFA is seeking a co-chair for our Fundraising and Membership Committee. Ideal candidates should be enthusiastic about co-ordinating fundraising and membership efforts for the organization. Even if you don’t consider yourself a superstar fundraiser, the knowledge and practice you’ll gain in this role will convince you otherwise. Review the volunteer profile and email us at pfasask@gmail.com. http://www.pfasask.com/2012/06/officer-fundraising.html

GO RIDERS GO!

Only two more months until CFL season kicks off! PFA is looking for volunteers to work the Western Pizza booth at Mosaic Stadium on game days throughout the Saskatchewan Roughriders season. It’s a great way to give back to the community while being a part of the action on game day! Check out the Rider schedule for home games and email us at pfasask@gmail.com to let us know which days interest you.

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL AGM FOR THE BOOKS!

Thanks to PFA members who attended our Annual General Meeting on April 13. We had a great turnout, generating a lot of positive ideas and discussion. The support and input we receive from members allows us to run our day-to-day operations, while strategically planning for the organization’s future. Members of the 2013-14 PFA Board of Directors are President – Silver Cherry, Vice-President – Sabrina Cataldo, Treasurer – Susan Henrikson, Director, Communications and Education – Kim Belhumeur, and Secretary – Anita Klassen. It’s not too late to buy your 2013 PFA membership -- http://www.pfasask.com/2012/03/join-or-renew.html. Thanks to Mila’s Home Cooked Catering for providing us with sustenance to keep us going for two hours of discussion. PFA looks forward to a fall fundraiser with Mila’s Home Cooked Catering just in time for Thanksgiving.

WANTED – PET RESCUE TEAM VOLUNTEERS

PFA’s Pet Rescue Team is looking for volunteers to fill the roles of Foster Home Liaison, and Pet Rescue Events Coordinator. The Pet Rescue Team works in concert with the Feral Cat Team to oversee the intake and adoptions of stray cats. The team is also responsible for overseeing the operation of PFA foster homes. Check out the volunteer job descriptions and email us at pfasask@gmail.com if you’d like to get involved with PFA’s Pet Rescue Team. http://www.pfasask.com/2012/06/volunteer-job-descriptions.html

BOCADOS FUNDRAISER -- 50/50 PRIZE STILL UNCLAIMED

The 50/50 prize from our fundraiser at Bocados on March 27 is still unclaimed. The prize is $347.50 – check your tickets! The winning ticket number is #371006. If you have this ticket, email us at pfasask@gmail.com. We’ll hold the prize until May 7, 2013. After this date, the money will be deposited into PFA’s bank account to be used for sterilizations.

KITTEN SEASON IS HERE – FOSTER HOMES NEEDED

In spite of the cool spring weather, kitten season is in full swing with a significant number of kittens already in PFA’s care. Fortunately, our feral feeders have keen eyes and spotted these kittens before they’re old enough to breed (usually around the five-month mark). Kittens can be rescued, socialized and adopted into loving homes – but we need foster homes to accomplish this. If you have room in your heart and home to foster a cat or kitten, check out the foster home responsibilities and email us at pfasask@gmail.com. All veterinary care and cat food are provided by PFA.

PFA’S TRAP-NEUTER-RELEASE PROGRAM

Spring is a busy time for PFA volunteers. There are many litters of kittens born to stray and feral cats that need to be rescued, sterilized and fostered. As well, adult strays and ferals need to be trapped and sterilized to stop them from breeding. We strongly support the practice of trap-neuter-release (TNR) as an effective method to manage and reduce the feral cat population in Regina. A successful TNR program will result in feral cat populations stabilizing and decreasing over time. Be on the lookout for PFA volunteers setting up traps around Regina. For more information on PFA’s TNR program or to find out how you can get involved, email us at pfasask@gmail.com.

Fostering cats is Elliott's life's work

By Ashley Martin
QC Magazine, The Leader-Post, April 18, 2013

Jaimie Elliott of People for Animals holds a litter of kittens
she has been fostering in her home in Regina.

Photo by Bryan Schlosser, Regina Leader-Post
 

The pitter-patter of little feet is a constant sound in Jaimie Elliott’s house. For the past four years, the Regina woman has fostered cats for the non-profit animal rescue group People For Animals (PFA). When she found a stray in her back yard but knew she couldn’t afford to support another cat, her neighbour told her about fostering. She hasn’t looked back.

Elliott has fostered 128 cats in the past four years. She also has three cats of her own, and a big dog named Sebastian, who she adopted six years ago from the Humane Society.

“Anybody that says dogs and cats can’t get along needs to meet Sebastian. He has won over every foster I’ve had,” said Elliott.

Elliott recently took on a mother cat named Rosie and her six kittens. When two more newborns were found outside the city, Rosie adopted the orphans as well. That brought Elliott’s household total to 15 cats in March, before Rosie’s six kittens were adopted out.

“When you’re feeding as many cats as I am around here you go through a lot of bags of food. Superstore usually looks at me crazy when I go in and buy four big nine-kilogram bags. I usually get asked how many cats I have.”

Q: Tell me about Rosie.

A: She started hanging around as a stray/feral outside (her owners’) house about two years ago and they started feeding her. ... At the end of October when the snow hit, she showed up on their back deck the one day making quite a bit of ruckus. When they went out to check what was going on, she had a litter of four babies sitting on their deck.Before she was done weening the first litter, not realizing that she could get pregnant while she was nursing, she ended up pregnant again with this litter.

Q: How did she come to adopt the two new kittens?

A: They were found by a concerned citizen out on a farm outside the city. I guess mama had decided to give birth in a cow stall and, after giving birth to these two little munchkins, got trampled. ... These guys were a couple of hours old and when they showed up here I didn’t think they’d make it the night. They were so very cold.Megan was 103 grams and Brigid was only 92 grams, so we’re talking two chocolate bars comparative weight. But all of Rosie’s kittens piled on top of them and warmed them up.

Rosie took over and did all the heavy lifting and it’s just been the last couple of days that she’s decided if I’m home I have to take care of them.

Q: Do you ever wish you could have some peace between bottle feedings and caring for so many cats?

A: There are the occasional moments when I wish my house wasn’t a zoo, but honestly I love what I do. Not everybody’s cut out for it and that’s OK ... but for me, this works. This is my life.I’ve gotten so used to it now that anything less than 10 just feels empty. That’s a sad statement to make; I realize that. (laughs)

Q: How does it feel when you have to give up your foster cats?

A: I go into it knowing that they’re temporary residents. The ones that are skittish or have been in less than desirable situations, my job is to let them know that humans can be affectionate and loving and what pet ownership is supposed to be. And then when they’re ready to go and the right home comes along, I feel gratified that they’re going to a good, loving home. ... It’s kind of nice when you watch somebody come and meet them and the connection being made, the bond being formed already.

Q: How do you know if it’s the right fit between a pet and a person?

A: The running joke is humans pick their dogs, but cats pick their humans. ... If you’re looking for a good-fit cat, you’re looking for a cat that wants to be interacting with you. And that’s the advantage to fostering. ... In the foster home you get a better sense of their personality. A cat that might be bouncing off the walls in a cage might not be all that energetic when they have free run of a house.I want them to go to the best home, not just a home. And sometimes that means they hang around for a while. My longest foster so far is nine months. The longest foster that we have currently with PFA has been with us for two years.

Q: Do you ever see a day where you won’t foster cats?

A: No, never. Can’t imagine it. I’ll be 90 years old in my rocking chair and I’ll still be fostering. And if I keep fostering the numbers I’ve been fostering, I’ll be well into the thousands by then.Last summer PFA had 149 cats in its care, and only euthanizes pets if there’s a medical reason to do so. PFA is always looking for foster homes.

If you can’t foster, you can otherwise volunteer. Visit pfasask.com to learn more, and to view the animals up for adoption.

Direct link to story: http://www.leaderpost.com/life/Fostering+cats+Elliott+life+work/8255395/story.html#ixzz2QsnEey3l

2013 Board of Directors Bios

Silver Cherry: President

Silver has been a member of People for Animals for four years. She served as Vice-President in 2012 and moved into the President role in 2013. She previously served on the fundraising committee, working numerous bingos and Riders games for PFA. Silver has also become well-known for the addictive catnip toys she makes. She has fostered for PFA for the last several years and ended up keeping three of her foster cats. Currently a learning and development consultant with the Government of Saskatchewan, Silver has more than 10 years of management experience in the private sector, and 25 years as an adult educator and trainer in both private and public institutions. She has four dogs rescued from the North West Territories and northern Saskatchewan, five cats (three from PFA, one from the SPCA and one from the Prince Albert SPCA (the only urban Saskatchewan SPCA that does not receive grants from its municipal government), and a PFA foster cat, Grace.

Sabrina Cataldo: Vice-President

Sabrina Cataldo has been involved with People for Animals since 2007 doing social media, communications, and serving as a foster home for cats and kittens. She served as Director, Communications and Education from November 2011 to December 2012 and became Vice-President in 2013. Sabrina is an award-winning communicator with more than 13 years of experience. She has been the communications strategist at a provincial government agency for six years and has previously worked as a communications officer at the University of Regina and as speechwriter in the provincial government. Sabrina has a bachelor of arts in English, a bachelor of journalism, and a certificate in public relations. Her home currently contains four cats (three adopted from PFA) and a PFA foster cat, Jazzy.

Susan Henrikson: Treasurer

Susan Henrikson works as manager of Villa Care Homes, three senior care homes in south Regina. She is responsible for 32 seniors and about as many staff who care for those seniors. She also does the bookkeeping and payroll for the care homes. She went back to school and received her diploma in accounting in 2008. In the past, she has been treasurer for volunteer groups such as Scouts and Girl Guides. She also did the bookkeeping for Rockglen Co-op for eight years. Susan has three cats, Gabby (from PFA), Sophie (from RHS), and Merlin, as well as a dog named Rooney and a bunny named Chibi.

Kim Belhumeur: Director, Communications and Education

Kim Belhumeur has served as Director, Communications and Education for PFA since January 2013, after serving as co-chair of the Communications Committee in 2012. Kim is an award-winning communicator with more than 14 years of experience. She has been a Content Management Consultant with a federal Crown corporation for eight years and has previously worked as a communications officer at a provincial Crown. She currently also volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and her workplace's United Way committee, and at various community events including the Cathedral Village Arts Festival Picnic, LatinoFest and the Regina Symphony Orchestra's Symphony Under The Sky. She has a bachelor of arts in journalism and communications. She adopted Sawyer, an only cat, from PFA in September 2010.

Jody Tse: Secretary

Jody joined the board as secretary in March of 2014. She holds a bachelor of Arts (Fine Arts) degree from the University of Regina and a law degree from the University of Saskatchewan. She is currently a senior lawyer with the government of Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Justice.

Jody and her husband are trying to fill an arc, and so far they have four cats, (Pumpkin, Sammy, Spaz, (a PFA rescue), and Cheetah), and three bunnies, (Rhubarb, SnowPea and Bunny).

Past President: Vacant

2013 Annual General Meeting Materials

In an effort to reduce our environmental footprint, this will be a paperless meeting. Information will be displayed on screen at the meeting. If you wish to have hard copies, please print the materials below:

• Agenda - April 13, 2013
• Minutes from 2012 Annual General Meeting - March 24, 2012
• 2012-13 Board Report
• 2012 Financial Statements
• 2012 Balance Sheet
• Proposed changes to Mission and Vision
• Proposed changes to Bylaws and Code of Ethics
• Proposed changes to Board and Officers Roles and Responsibilities
• Bios of members running for election to the Board of Directors

PFA E-Bulletin, Volume 22 (March 2013)

SAVE THE DATE – 2013 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – APRIL 13

The 2013 PFA Annual General Meeting will be held on Saturday, April 13 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the United Way of Regina (1440 Scarth St.) You must have a 2013 membership in order to vote at the AGM. Materials will be posted to the PFA website in advance. More info to come soon!

2013 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE (WITH PRIZES!)

People for Animals is a membership-based non-profit, which means you can make a real difference in cats' and kittens' lives by purchasing an annual membership for $25 (or renewing if you have one already.) Purchase or renew by March 30 and you are eligible to win some great prizes, including gift certificates for local businesses and a beautiful necklace. More info on memberships here: /www.pfasask.com/asask.com/2012/03/join-or-renew.html

CALL FOR INTEREST – SECRETARY, BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Are you organized? Good at taking notes? Interested in learning about non-profit governance? Like hanging out with super cool cat people? If so, serving as Secretary on the PFA 2013-14 Board of Directors could be for you! Review the job description and email us your qualifications at pfasask@gmail.com. /www.pfasask.com/asask.com/2012/06/secretary.html

BOCADOS FUNDRAISER

Come out on Wednesday, March 27 (4:30 to 9 p.m.) for a tasty meal for a great cause! For $20, you get salad (mixed greens or Caesar), an entree (Chicken Mushroom Alfredo; Spinach, Mushroom and Artichoke Penne; Flat Iron Steak with sides; or Grilled Chicken Breast with sides) and a drink. 50/50 draw and silent auction. Email pfasask@gmail.com to buy tickets, or to arrange to sell some.

LOCAL COUPON BOOKS

For only $25, purchase a coupon book valued at almost $4,000 to use at over 50 local businesses! Proceeds go to PFA to support the many cats and kittens in our care. Please see our Facebook event for a list of businesses featured: https://www.facebook.com/events/357826477664818/. If you're interested in buying a book or selling some on our behalf, email pfasask@gmail.com.

INTERACTING WITH A TIMID CAT

PFA volunteers have fostered a number of cats and kittens who were socialized late and are shy or timid. When these special cats are adopted, their new guardians will need to take extra time to help them adjust to their new environment. Please see this article for information on interacting with timid cats: /www.pfasask.com/asask.com/2013/03/interacting-with-shy-cat-or-kitten-who.html

Interacting with a Shy Cat or Kitten Who Was Socialized Late

From NYC Eartips: Winter 2009
by Nancy Alusick, KittyKind, and Kathleen Goward, Anjellicle Cats

KittyKind occasionally finds itself with cats and kittens who are shy because they were not socialized during the crucial ages of development — around 2–12 weeks. We have a number of volunteers who generously donate their time to work with these cats so that they can be placed into permanent homes. These volunteers use a technique which offers food as an incentive for the cats to interact and ultimately seek affection from people.

The cats and kittens are placed in a small space, such as a bathroom, where they can become accustomed to the presence of people. The volunteer first places a plate of food a few feet from her and then slowly, over time, moves the plate closer and closer. When the cats are comfortable eating from a plate placed in close proximity, the volunteer very gently begins to stroke the cat. The cats become accustomed to touch and in time begin to seek out the attention of people.

We call these cats "Extra Special" because, when they are adopted, their new guardians will need to take extra time to acclimate the cats to their new environment and to actively interact with them. It is important to play with the cats and feed them in a location where the cats can be petted while they are eating. The cats will very quickly bond with their new owners and, because they are "Extra Special," KittyKind will continue to provide extra advice and support to the new owners.

Following are some tips to accelerate the process:

1) Cats are creatures of habit and love predictable environments. During the first few days, avoid making loud or sudden noises, and always leave an escape route for the cats so that they feel they can protect themselves by retreating to a hiding place.

2) Most cats will exhibit shy behavior when introduced to new environments. Cats are cautious animals by nature and tend to look for the protection and comfort of an environment where they can fully or partially conceal themselves. As they become more accustomed to the sights, sounds, people, and animals in the new space and realize that they will not be physically harmed, they will leave their hideaway and seek companionship and sustenance.

3) When the cat has become comfortable eating from the food dish, sit down a foot away from the dish and, after a few moments, reach over from behind and gently stroke her. Never bring your hand directly toward the cat's face, as this will startle her. As your cat becomes accustomed to the petting, over time move the food dish to different spots in your home. Cats are "site specific" in that they associate certain behavior with various locations. You cat will associate your affection with the food and with the location of the food dish. Even when the food dish is removed, she will think of the location as a safe spot to receive and give affection.

4) Use toys to engage your cat or kitten in play. Feather toys or string toys attached to poles are great devices to coax your pet to come closer to you.

5) Do not stare at your kitty. When you do make eye contact, slowly lower your lids, blink, or close your eyes. You will see him do the same in response. If he is nervous at your touch, the stress can be reduced, if again, you close your eyes — no predator kills with its eyes closed. In the natural world of prey and predator, when one stares at the other, it means someone is about to be someone else's dinner. DO make eye contact when you have food, a treat, or a gift.

6) Walk around with a ribbon tied behind you so that your cat gets to feel like she is chasing you. If she approaches to check you out, be still and let her investigate you.

7) A hawk is a cat's natural enemy. Don't look like one by swooping down on him. Your new kitty will like you best if you are sitting on the floor or a couch where you can be at his level.

8) If your kitty runs when you pass her, pass her with your back to her.

9) NEVER yell at or punish your cat.

10) Prepare in advance for any vet appointments by serving the food in the carrier for a week or so before the appointment. On the appointed day, wait for the cat to go in and close the door.

11) When you pick him up, do it slowly and gently.

Your cat's introduction will be a little slower. She may require a little more effort, but once you've won her over, the bond is even stronger and she will become the most special cat you've ever had. It's all there waiting for the person who nurtures it.

Financial Process

revised January 29, 2024

• Any and all monetary or items exchanged for monetary value must be entered into the books of RCR in keeping with sound bookkeeping practices

• RCR Treasurer will hold the only debit card for the General bank account. Online access for any other members will be at the discretion of the Treasurer but one other Board member will have this access. Any other bank accounts for RCR use will be disclosed to the Treasurer and will include Treasurer in signing authority. Such accounts will have a minimum of 2 signers (one of which is Treasurer).

• Signing authority for the General bank account will be two of four signatures, consisting of Operations Manager, RCR Treasurer, RCR Board President and one other RCR Board Member.

• Post office box keys will be held by RCR Treasurer with another RCR Board Member holding the other one for backup.

• Access to PayPal will be limited to RCR Treasurer and designate.

• Only RCR Treasurer will have authority to issue receipts except as outlined in Charitable Receipt Policy.

• Any cash given in advance for expenditures will be maintained on a Petty Cash Form. Amounts are to be pre-determined and approved by the Board.

• RCR Treasurer will be responsible to submit the Corporate Registry, application for GST, and T3010 within the appropriate deadlines.

• RCR Treasurer will submit books to the Auditor (as assigned at Annual Meeting).

Board Member Conduct

Email Communications
When appropriate to use email:

·       to inform and solicit a vote on emergent situations between board meetings

·       to inform and remind about events where board attendance is desired

·       to discuss committee work among committee members.

Board Meeting Communications

·       Every effort will be made to schedule board meetings so that all board members may attend.

·       Board meetings will follow elements of Robert’s Rules of Order. 

·       Board members must declare any conflicts of interest at the beginning of the meeting. When an agenda item comes up for discussion, board members who have identified a conflict of interest in regards to that item will leave the room for the debate and vote. If the board member with the conflict is the one who brought forward the agenda item, s/he may speak to the item to explain why s/he has brought it forward, and then leave the room so the debate and vote may take place among the rest of the board members.

·       Voting at board meetings will be conducted via a show of hands.

·       Board members must submit any agenda or voting items to the Secretary a minimum of four (4) days in advance of the board meeting along with a short background description of the item and/or short explanation as to why a vote is required. During the meeting, the board may agree to add emerging agenda and voting items to the agenda. Board members and committee heads must submit updates on their portfolios to the Secretary a minimum of 48 hours in advance of a board meeting. If there is no new business to report, a statement to that effect should be included in the report.

·       Board members and committee missing more than two reports in a calendar year may be asked to step down from the portfolio for one year. Board members missing three board meetings in a calendar year may be asked to step down from the portfolio for one year. This is to ensure that all board members are acknowledging their responsibilities and meeting their obligations.

·       Debate will be respectful. 

·       If the meeting chair wishes to partake in a debate on an item, s/he must step aside as the chair for that particular item and pass the chair onto another board member. The chair may resume his/her duties once the debate on that item is completed.

·       If necessary, votes may be taken via email for emergent issues that cannot wait until the next meeting. If the issue has been raised by a person outside of the board (i.e. committee head), a member of the board will create a separate email thread consisting only of board members for the purpose of discussion and voting. The original email thread will not be used for discussion, though questions may be posed for clarification. Every opportunity will be given to ensure all board members have the time to consider and comment on the issue before a vote is conducted. If a board member expresses that s/he has not been given enough time to consider and comment on the issue, the vote will be delayed until this is possible. If the issue was raised by a person outside of the board, the President will notify the person via the original email thread of the board’s decision once the vote has been finalized. Board email discussions will be confidential and only the results of the vote can be made public.

Communication with the Public
·       Media inquiries will be directed to the Director, Communications and Public Education, who will determine the spokesperson and key messages.

·       Discussions at board meetings will be confidential. If a vote has taken place, only the results of the vote may be made public.

·       Board members will not engage people outside of the board in board debates.

·       All approved board policies will be posted to Regina Cat Rescue’s website.

·       Board members and committee heads will not make negative comments about Regina Cat Rescue or other animal welfare organizations in public.

PFA E-Bulletin, Volume 21 (February 2013)

2013 PFA MEMBERSHIPS

People for Animals is a membership-based non-profit organization – our members make us strong! Please consider purchasing a new membership or renewing your membership for 2013. Memberships are $25 per year or $500 for a lifetime membership. Plus, anyone renewing or purchasing memberships before March 30 will be entered into a draw for some fantastic prizes!

For more information, visit: /www.pfasask.com/asask.com/2012/03/join-or-renew.html. Members may attend and vote at the AGM in April, electing our board of directors for the year and making important contributions to the governance of PFA.

BINGO VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Bingos worked by PFA volunteers are essential fundraisers that make a major dent in our large vet bills. We have a small core of dedicated volunteers, but we are always in need of more. Volunteering at bingos is a fun way to meet some new people and help the animals in our care with just a few hours of commitment. If you can help, please email pfasask@gmail.com.

FERAL CAT FEEDERS NEEDED

We are looking for dedicated individuals who can feed cats on our feral cat routes. The commitment is once per week for one to two hours. If you have the time, we and the kitties would really appreciate it. For more on the volunteer opportunity, visit: /www.pfasask.com/asask.com/2012/06/feral-cat-feeder.html and email us at pfasask@gmail.com.

 

SCARVES FOR ANIMALS!

Keep warm and fashionable with a new ruffle scarf in your choice of colors, with proceeds going to People for Animals! Scarves are $15 each and hand crocheted to order – see photos and colour options here: https://www.facebook.com/events/150739821742476/. You can email your order to daisycanada@hotmail.com. Delivery and pickup will be arranged via email. This is an ongoing fundraiser throughout the winter months.

 

GOLD CANYON FUNDRAISER

A house full of cats doesn’t have to smell bad. In addition to regular litter scooping, you can also sweeten the air with some Gold Canyon scented products. PFA and Gold Canyon are partnering for a fundraiser from February 17 to March 9, with 20% of sales going to PFA. Visit https://angelwingscents.mygc.com/Home and click on the People for Animals link under My Parties. After you place your order, please email us at pfasask@gmail.com to let us know.

CELEBRATING VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS

We had a great Volunteer and Donor Appreciation event on February 17. Thank you to all of our volunteers and donors, whether you were able to come out or not. Thank you to our sponsors who donated food and prizes to help make the day a great success: Western Pizza (3847 Albert Street), 24-Hour Animal Care Centre, Metro Pet Market, Peavey Mart, Rainbow Cinemas, Fondant Creations, RBC, Flavours of India, Zippity Zoom Toys and Access Communications. And a special thanks to the many volunteers who came together to organize and run the event!

THANK YOU FROM OUR THREE-LEGGED KITTEN

Thanks to a quick response and many generous donations, Hawksley, our frostbitten kitten, was able to have the surgery he needed to remove his leg and relieve him of severe pain and the potential for serious infection. Our spunky little guy is now recovering in his foster home, and is bouncing back fast and adapting well to life with three legs. We are pleased to announce that our sweet boy has already been adopted by a loving family and will be joining them once he's recovered! For pictures of Hawksley, visit: http://blog.pfasask.com/2013/02/thank-you-from-our-little-three-legged.html

Intake Policy and Procedure

Revised November 2018

The Intake Policy applies to all intake requests.

Regina Cat Rescue will endeavour to respond in a timely and effective fashion to rescue requests for Regina street cats (within a 30 kilometre radius of the city. Rescues beyond this geographic area may be made with Board approval.) RCR is a 100% volunteer organization without shelter facilities and, therefore, cannot provide emergency services to the public.  Members of the public are required to complete the intake request form found on the Regina Cat Rescue website.

RCR will endeavour to preserve the life of each cat that comes under its care, to the best ability of those members involved in the rescue and care of the animal, within the confines of the organization’s finances. RCR will endeavour to ensure all cats that come under its care are free from an unreasonable degree of pain or suffering, even when this must result in euthanasia.

RCR will place rescued, socialized animals in an approved foster home or approved satellite adoption centre at all times, unless in the case of a special need, at which time a designated volunteer of the Pet Rescue Team will perform an emergency screening and authorize temporary placement in a suitable environment, which may include boarding at a veterinary clinic. 

RCR will endeavour to ensure that cats are healthy before placing them in foster care.

RCR will post a description, photograph (if possible) and details of rescued cats on the appropriate found sites and report to the Regina Humane Society (RHS), as well as undertake all other reasonable efforts to locate a current owner.

RCR will notify the RHS in cases where there is concern about the treatment or welfare of animals in any situation, whether indoors or outdoors, especially in those cases where attempts to correct the situation are ineffective due to non-compliance - i.e. an RHS animal control officer must be notified. RCR does not have the authority to remove owned pets from unsafe or neglectful situations.  If volunteers are aware of situations of possible abuse or neglect, the Regina Humane Society must be notified.

An RCR volunteer finding a sick or injured animal on a feeding route or elsewhere should facilitate a rescue immediately and take the animal to one of the RCR approved veterinary clinics. The Community Cat Team or Pet Rescue Team chairs must be contacted as soon as possible and provided all relevant facts of the situation. The applicable program chairs will consult with the clinic, and make decisions for the veterinary care of the injured animal as per the Veterinary Authorization policy.

RCR does not “re-home” companion animals except in extenuating circumstances and if we have the financial resources and space to accommodate them. Examples where an exception may be made include 1) seniors who have passed away or are forced to leave their home to move into seniors’ housing with no-pet policies,  2) pet owners who are stricken with debilitating or fatal illnesses and can no longer care for their pets, or 3) women who have left a domestic violence situation. An Intake Application must be completed and forwarded to Pet Rescue. The Pet Rescue Team makes the final decision as to available resources. 

A Community Cat Team volunteer finding a tame cat on an RCR feeding route must contact the Community Cat Team committee chairs, who will contact the Pet Rescue program chairs to inquire about foster or boarding availability. Note: the volunteer should not contact the Pet Rescue Team chairs directly unless it is an emergency situation. Options for the Community Cat Team volunteer finding a tame cat for which there is no immediate placement option within the Foster-Adoption program are as follows:

Companion animals may be placed on the wait list for foster placement. In the interim, and in consultation with the Community Cat chairs, the animal can be photographed and posted on the appropriate found sites, and other efforts made to find a current owner. After the applicable recommended “72-hour hold” period has passed, sterilization and tattooing/microchipping may be carried out. In the case of a tame cat, the cat may be returned to the home neighbourhood or territory until such time as a foster care placement becomes available. Advantages to this approach are that there is less chance of fighting and disease transmission, and cats are readily identifiable as RCR “property” by the RHS should they be brought into the shelter. Stray cats with identification such as a tattoo or microchip must be held for 10 days before being put up for adoption, unless an owner is reached and agrees to surrender the cat.

RCR may opt to take in “special needs” cats on a case-by case basis, and dependent upon available resources at the time. RCR must formulate an individualized plan to accommodate a “special needs” animal and facilitate an appropriate placement around the time the case is being reviewed. Each such case should be discussed with a veterinarian to determine a diagnosis, prognosis and estimate for cost of care. The Pet Rescue Team will bring a recommendation to the Board of Directors for a decision. “Special needs” cases can also be defined as involving animals that are not readily adoptable and to which one or more of the following apply:

• Are not adaptable to traditional foster care (being indoors) due to having a semi-feral or timid nature but cannot remain in home territory for some compelling reason.

• Have serious, chronic health issues such as diabetes or other “high maintenance” and “high cost” conditions incurring expensive veterinary care and/or requiring long term or specialized foster care placements.

•   Are not expected to become adoptable within a reasonable period of time and/or are anticipated to exceed a six-month time period in foster care (this is highly unpredictable).

Community Cats entering through the Pet Rescue program

Community cats where intake was facilitated by the Pet Rescue Team will be added to the Community Cat Team’s intake and sterilization statistics.

Such cats will thereafter become Community Colony cats and will fall under the Community Cat Team’s responsibility.

Tame cats entering through the Community Cats program

Tame cats where intake was facilitated by the Community Cat Team will be added to the Pet Rescue Team’s intake and sterilization statistics.

Such cats will thereafter enter the Foster-Adoption system and will fall under the Pet Rescue Team’s responsibility.

Deposit Policy and Procedure

RCR Treasurer will have final approval of any person authorized to make a deposit on behalf of RCR and will educate that person in the correct procedure for making the deposit.

All depositors must complete “Regina Cat Rescue Deposit Form” completely and correctly. Photocopies will be made of those cheques deposited and the name and address of anyone making a donation to RCR will be submitted so that a receipt can be issued. Membership information will also be recorded on the deposit form.

Anyone making a deposit will inform RCR Treasurer of the date and amount of the deposit and submit the paperwork involved to the Treasurer in a timely manner.

After the cheque(s) has cleared the RCR bank account, RCR Treasurer will issue a receipt for donations and will submit membership information to the Membership committee head to be recorded in the membership database.

PFA E-Bulletin, Volume 20 (January 2013)

VOLUNTEER AND DONOR RECOGNITION EVENT

PFA exists because of volunteers and donors like you who selflessly give your time, talents and funds to rescuing homeless cats, and we want to recognize you. Join us from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 17 for a volunteer appreciation event at United Way Connects, 1440 Scarth Street. Please RSVP to pfasask@gmail.com. We look forward to seeing you there!


HONORARY MEMBERSHIP NOMINATIONS DUE FEBRUARY 1

PFA is committed to recognizing individuals who’ve made a significant voluntary contribution to animal welfare. We have a category of membership reserved for recognizing such distinguished volunteers. Honorary PFA memberships are granted at the discretion of the Board of Directors based on a set of nominating criteria. (Note: Honorary memberships are non-voting memberships.) If you want to nominate someone for an honorary membership, review the eligibility, criteria and nomination process and submit the Honorary Membership Nomination Form by Friday, February 1. Honorary memberships for 2013 will be awarded at the volunteer appreciation event on Sunday, February 17.


RENEW YOUR PFA MEMBERSHIP FOR 2013

PFA relies on member support to continue to advocate for animals in crisis. Memberships expire December 31 of each year (unless you purchase a lifetime membership) and memberships purchased in the fourth quarter of each year apply to the following year. If your contact information hasn’t changed, you don’t need to submit the membership form with your payment ($25 per year or $200 for lifetime membership). Simply pay online via PayPal (enter Membership Renewal in the How May We Direct Your Donation? field) or mail us a cheque (indicate Membership in the note line). New members will need to submit the PFA membership application with payment. Members will have voting privileges at the upcoming 2013 Annual General Meeting.



EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEER GRANTS

Many organizations offer employee volunteer grants to recognize employee community involvement. We encourage all PFA volunteers to look into employee volunteer grants at their workplace. It requires little effort compared to other fundraising efforts and can provide PFA with much needed funds. Thanks to the following organizations for their support through their employee volunteer programs.

· Affinity Credit Union (on behalf of Joan Gallinger and Marcia Gordon)

· Farm Credit Canada (on behalf of Kim Belhumeur)

· RBC (on behalf of Stephanie Streifel)

· SaskPower (on behalf of Alanna Whippler)


THANKS TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS!

As a registered charity, PFA depends on volunteers and independent fundraising activities. Sponsorship partners help us to improve the lives of Regina’s homeless cats. We encourage volunteers who are also local business owners to consider a PFA corporate sponsorship. More information, including sponsorship levels, is available on our website. Thanks to Flux CrossFit and SaskBattery Distributors Inc. for signing on as bronze partners with PFA. Contact us at pfasask@gmail.com for more information on how your business can make a difference in our community.


FERAL FEEDERS NEEDED

We’re looking for volunteers to help feed cats in our feral colonies around the city. An hour or two of your time each week can help make a real difference in the lives of Regina’s homeless cats. For more information, read the job description here.


SUBMIT YOUR ADOPTION SUCCESS STORY

Have you adopted a cat from People for Animals? We'd love to hear from you! PFA will be featuring successful adoptions at the volunteer appreciation event on Sunday, February 17 and would appreciate your contributions. Please email a recent photo of you and your cat with your names and adoption date to pfasask@gmail.com by Friday, February 1. Your story could inspire others to make the decision to add a PFA cat to their family!


THANKS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON SUPPORT

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our December cat food and litter drive. Our foster and feral cats and kittens will be well fed this winter! Thanks also to Retrovise, Employment Network and Pet Valu for serving as our drop-off locations for donations. There were also workplaces that held donation drives for PFA throughout December, including SaskPower Corporate Communications and Mental Health and Addictions, Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region. We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the Grade 8 class at Coronation Park School that collected a huge amount of food and litter for PFA. We love to see youth with an interest in animal welfare. We also owe a debt of gratitude to numerous individuals who sponsored cats throughout December. Because of your support, we were able to sterilize all of the cats we had intended to spay and neuter in December. We look forward to launching another holiday sponsorship campaign in December 2013.

Amora

In memory of Amora

June 24, 2000 - January 15, 2013

Charitable Tax Receipts

Charitable tax receipts can only be issued by PFA Treasurer

Tax receipts are not provided for:

• Services
• Purchase of an item or service (for example, a purchase at a garage sale or a raffle ticket)
• Payment for adoptions
• Donations of any item, gift certificate or voucher for an auction or raffle
• Funds raised by a bottle drive or something similar
• A single donation under $25
• Membership fees, with the exception of lifetime membership
• A group, (it must be an individual or an individual business.)

Tax receipts will not be issued until the funds have been verified.

A tax receipt will be issued for donations over $25 and a thank you card will be sent to the donor.

Tax receipts will be issued for gift-in-kind as long as original, legitimate purchase receipts are provided to the Treasurer with approval from Feral or Foster Team Head. Requests for tax receipts for gas will be at the discretion of PFA Board, and either Feral or Foster Team Head. Taxes are not included in any of the total for a receipt for gifts in kind.

Issuance of a charitable tax receipt for donations of used items must have the fair market value established prior to the issuance.

Receipts can only be issued to the individual who has made the gift.

Honorary Membership

Revised November 2018

Regina Cat Rescue (RCR) is committed to recognizing individuals who have made a significant voluntary contribution to our animal welfare. This policy outlines the eligibility, criteria and processes for nominating and awarding an Honorary Membership and/or an Honorary Lifetime Membership to RCR. Honorary Memberships are non-voting memberships and can be rescinded by a majority vote of the RCR Board of Directors for just cause.

Honorary Lifetime Membership Eligibility

The following individuals would be eligible for nomination:

• Volunteers in regular on-going involvement - 20 years service.

• Individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to improving animal welfare (this may include Volunteers, President/Chairperson and Board members who may not have reached the service milestones).

• President/Chairperson - 10 years service.

• Board members - 15 years service.

Criteria

Each nomination will be judged on its merits. Achievement of the service eligibility does not automatically qualify someone to receive Honorary Lifetime Membership. Criteria for consideration of the nomination for an outstanding contribution by an individual to improve animal welfare may include, amongst other things:

• An individual campaigning for animal welfare changes that achieved the desired outcome (e.g. legislative improvements.)

• An individual contribution that results in substantial improvement in animal welfare.

• Individuals who have shown leadership in their local community, which has positively influenced community views about animal welfare.

• Individuals who have shown leadership within RCR

• An RCR donor who has contributed financially over a period of 20 years or more

Nomination Process

• Nominations can be made by any RCR member or volunteer, on the Honorary Membership Nomination Form.

• Nominations will be considered and awards determined by the RCR Board.

• Award nominations should be forwarded to the Board of Directors at least 30 days before the volunteer appreciation event each year.

• The RCR Board will review nominations annually at the last board meeting before the volunteer appreciation event, so that the successful nominee/s can receive a presentation at the event.

Documentation

Applications must be completed on the Honorary Membership Nomination Form and returned no later than 30 days before the volunteer appreciation event each year to:


Board of Directors
Regina Cat Rescue
P.O. Box 33066
Cathedral Postal Outlet
Regina, SK S4T 7X2
info@reginacatrescue.com

Adoption Follow-Up

Revised November 2018

• RCR will sterilize  all cats and kittens (12 weeks of age or older) before adoption can proceed.

• RCR will only adopt to people who have been appropriately screened by a member of the Pet Rescue Team or Satellite Adoption Centre employee, and who agree to sign and honour the statements as laid out in the RCR “Adoption Contract”.

• RCR will collect the following non-refundable adoption fees: 

- $100 for vaccinated, sterilized older cats (10 years or older)
- $140 for vaccinated, sterilized cats and kittens
- $200 for vaccinated, sterilized cats in bonded pairs

• RCR will perform follow-up calls to check on adjustment to new home.

• RCR will appropriately action any situation where the adoption contract has not been honoured, when the foster parent or call back volunteer has concerns about the adoption, when notified by the new owner that the cat has been lost or injured, or when the new owner expresses a wish to return the pet to RCR.

• A designated member of the Pet Rescue Team will enter all applicable data on the cat, adopter and associated data as appears in the RCR database. Records are kept in accordance with Regina Cat Rescue’s Privacy Policy.

A designated member of the Pet Rescue Team will inquire during the follow up as to whether or not the adopter wishes to register for a six-week free trial of pet insurance. The adopter has no obligation to continue this insurance after the trial period, and it will automatically expire if the adopter does not sign up for additional insurance. If the adopter agrees, a pet rescue volunteer will activate the trial.

• The tattoo and microchip record, if applicable, will be transferred to the new owner by a designated member of the RCR Pet Rescue team, or by the new owner as is outlined in the “Adoption Contract”. 

• A copy of the Spay-Neuter record will be given to the new owner at the time of the adoption; the original will be the property of RCR. Contracts, veterinary records and other information for individual cats will be entered into the RCR database post-adoption.

Employee Volunteer Grants

We have recently found that many employers offer Employee Volunteer Grants to organizations where their employees volunteer. People for Animals has received grants of up to $500 from workplaces that support employee volunteerism. Recent grants include:

• Affinity Credit Union (on behalf of Joan Gallinger and Marcia Gordon) 
• Farm Credit Canada (on behalf of Kim Belhumeur)
• RBC (on behalf of Stephanie Streifel)
• SaskPower (on behalf of Alanna Whippler and Jackie Kruger)

With this generous opportunity in mind, we encourage you to ask your employer about grants that may be available as a result of your commitment to PFA.

Please contact pfasask@gmail.com for further questions about employee volunteer grants.

Foster Homes

Revised November 2018

• RCR will grant Foster Parent status only to those people who have completed a Regina Cat Rescue volunteer application and have been satisfactorily screened by a member of the Pet Rescue Team.

• RCR Foster Parents must agree to honour and follow the processes and principles as laid out by the Pet Rescue Team.

• A designated member of the Pet Rescue Team will keep in close contact with the Foster Home to provide support, including text, email, phone calls and personal visits (when possible) to ensure that the Foster Home situation is optimal for both the Foster Parent, as well as any cats under his/her care.

• RCR will do the utmost to reduce the risk of introducing disease to the Foster Parent's pets, through ensuring they are appropriately vaccinated, treated for ear mites, dewormed  and tested for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) for high risk cases as soon as possible.

• RCR Pet Rescue volunteers may be appropriately trained to administer the needed vaccinations.

• RCR Pet Rescue volunteers will do the utmost to have foster cats photographed and listed for adoption and adoption as soon as possible once the cat becomes available for adoption.

• Foster homes may be asked to participate in adoption events or other promotional events, for example, cat yoga, at the discretion of the Pet Rescue Team.

Farm Homes

• RCR performs an on-site assessment and advises on requirements when necessary.

• RCR confirms that requirements are met prior to transport (by phone/email), and verifies in person at the time of transport.

• RCR ensures that a shelter is available/constructed and is adequate for our harsh winters:

- adequate warmth for winter; straw bales and bedding, heat lamp if additional heat needed
- protection from elements; shelter from wind, snow, rain, cold, heat

• RCR ensures that there is agreement that the cat(s) will be confined for a period of no less than 2 weeks, as it adjusts to new surroundings.

• RCR ensures that the cat(s) will be reasonably safe from predators or dogs:

- safe places to hide (straw bales, outbuildings, barn, shelter) exist on the property

• RCR ensures that the cat(s) receive fresh water (heated water bowls are recommended).

• RCR ensures that cats receive a high protein dry cat food as part of their diet (wet food supplements are recommended.

• RCR performs a follow-up inquiry on status post transport to farm and post surgery (sterilization)

Backyard Community Cat Colonies

Revised November 2018

RCR’s role in assisting private citizens in regards to “backyard colonies” can vary broadly. This document will clearly define what constitutes a “backyard colony” designation, the partnerships RCR may enter into with the operators of such colonies, and the conditions or requirements that must be considered before entering into partnerships.

• A “backyard colony” within the body of this policy refers to a colony of cats, reported by a private citizen not affiliated with Regina Cat Rescue or any other animal welfare/control agency or organization at the point of contact.

  • More than one or a few cats are known to congregate in the location, over a significant time span. Regardless of whether a private citizen is feeding or providing shelter, as long as the cats are able to survive and remain in the area, establishing a home territory, it can be referred to as a “colony.”

  • Although community cats normally make up the majority of members of such colonies, abandoned, lost and stray tame cats may be attracted by the resident cats, or migrate to these sites in search of food and/or shelter and may be regarded as “colony cats.”

  • The colony may be located within Regina on private or commercial property, or may be located outside of the Regina city limits on an acreage or farm or commercial property, within a scope of about 25 kilometres from the city limits. (Note: Colonies located more than 25 kilometers from Regina are not automatically ineligible, but the logistics make options for partnering limited, and efforts should be made to refer to other agencies which are geographically nearby).

• In the majority of requests/referrals, RCR volunteers will suggest private citizens become a member of RCR and will ask private citizens to share in the cost of sterilizations or make a donation to RCR.

• RCR may elect to partner with the stabilization or maintenance of a backyard colony, if the situation is deemed serious enough that withholding involvement would be considered irresponsible or cause undue suffering to the feline colony residents. To illustrate, the following scenarios would be due cause for direct action or other intervention: 1) the population of a colony is large, with many pregnant females (i.e. impending “population explosion”), or 2) the conditions are dire enough that colony cats would be placed in jeopardy or suffer unduly (i.e. no food or shelter in harsh winter conditions). In such scenarios, the Community Cat Team and/or Pet Rescue Committee Leads and Board are bound to consult and make a decision and/or bring the case to the attention of the Board.
  

• In cases where the scope of a proposed project appears to be beyond the resources, mandate or ability of RCR to fully manage, efforts may be made to alleviate the short-term threat to the feline colony residents through provision of shelters, food, or other interventions. If the decision is that RCR’s assistance can or will not be provided, then it is the responsibility of RCR to notify the Regina Humane Society Animal Control Unit or Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan if it is warranted.

• On a case-by-case basis, the Community Cat Team and/or Pet Rescue Committee Leads will conduct assessments, formulate proposals, and then seek consultation and reach a decision of the Board regarding colony projects, operation or maintenance, including partnership or provisions of sterilizations or provisions of supplies on a long term basis.

• RCR volunteers must conduct an inquiry and formulate an assessment of the backyard colony, performing a telephone interview/questionnaire at the very minimum. Volunteers must gather information on the history and scope of the colony including specifics such as goals for the colony, estimated numbers, sex, descriptions, age and temperaments, sterilization status of feline colony residents, and the current operation/maintenance practices. When a colony is in a rural location or large in scope, an on-site assessment is recommended. All assessments, regardless of how they are conducted, must address but are not limited to the following items:

  • Agreement to sterilize all existing cats and new cats to the colony by the private citizen caretaker

  • shelter considerations: adequate protection from the elements

  • reasonable safety: from predators or dogs, equipment, machinery

  • fresh water: heated water bowls are recommended

  • food: dry cat food with wet food supplement is recommended

  • veterinary care: provided when illness or injury warrants

  • goals and participation (financial, practical) of the applicant.

(Note: In some cases, RCR may be contributing resources to the project to enable the above requirements to be met)

• RCR must perform a follow-up inquiry after the termination of the active phase of a partnership or project, and a physical re-assessment must be facilitated when indicated (depends on scope of the project).

• RCR will offer goods or services to fulfil a project partnership as follows, either wholly or in partnership with the applicant (financial, practical), under certain conditions or with specific requirements in place as outlined within this policy. Each case is individual and will often require consultation among various Board and Committee members.

  • food, shelter, equipment or sterilization/veterinary care

  • practical advice for trapping or shelter construction

  • loan or provision of supplies such as heated water bowls, shelters, humane traps

  • provision of hands-on resources (volunteers) to assist in stabilizing a colony population, including trapping, transportation to veterinary clinic or relocation sites, on-site advisory role

  • facilitation of sterilizations or other veterinary care of colony cats

  • resources and space permitting for provision of boarding or foster care for tame cats or kittens associated with the colony

  • resources and space permitting for provision of adoption and screening/placement assistance for tame cats or kittens associated with the colony

  • issuance of tax receipts for food and veterinary care when colony caretaker provides and submits original sales receipts.

• RCR will list the applicable details for all cats that have been trapped, sterilized and returned to a colony on the RCR Community Cat Registry which is periodically forwarded to the Regina Humane Society.